IBM
has created evolutionary solutions for data networks in anticipation of the dynamic
trends and business advantages of integrating voice onto data networks. IBM's
strategy is to provide high quality equipment and services with cost saving implementations
that enable networks either to be upgraded using the installed base or architected
to start simple and grow fast in cost-effective steps while accommodating new
technologies or standards.Voice and data integration is currently a hot topic
within the business community, with its promise of major cost savings and consolidation
of data and voice infrastructures. But there remains some skepticism and the old
adage 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' certainly has a few adherents. However,
while PBX based telephone systems have certainly proved their worth in the past,
there is growing evidence that the demands of modern business will increasingly
necessitate the implementation of integrated voice and data systems. Up to now,
small sites were the ones that showed themselves willing to adopt the new standard,
but now it is the large enterprise sites with existing PBX based systems that
are beginning to be seduced by the significant business and cost benefits that
a migration to VoIP technology can bring.

Voice and data integration, or convergence,
is the next mission-critical, must-have technology, according to many telecommunications
experts. As businesses upgrade their networks or build new infrastructure, many
are turning to integrated networking solutions that use packet-switched networks
to accommodate voice and video in addition to data. Examples of integrated solutions
include Frame Relay, ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) and voice over IP. From
a pure business perspective, moving toward integration seems wise, especially
as com-petition becomes more fierce and operating costs continue to rise. Networking
voice and data can help your business to be more productive and efficient, enabling
you to use the same technology and personnel for different operations.